What should be done if the PA and intercom become inoperative?

If the public address (PA) and intercom systems are inoperative, notifying the Flight Deck is essential for coordinating an effective response to the situation. This communication is crucial because the Flight Deck needs to be aware of the issue to ensure safety and to implement alternative communication strategies if necessary.

In scenarios involving loss of standard communication systems, the Flight Deck may need to adjust flight operations, inform passengers of any changes, or communicate with emergency services if the situation escalates. Promptly informing the Flight Deck allows them to assess the situation and take appropriate action, which is vital for maintaining safety onboard.

While other methods such as hand signals or preparing manual communication devices might be considered in a communication breakdown, the prioritized action should be to notify the Flight Deck first. Waiting to see if the PA and intercom come back online can lead to delays in communication, which might jeopardize safety and operational efficiency.